The Power of Social Media during the time of COVID-19 Pandemic

COVID-19 a serious infectious disease spread to whole world from the city of Wuhan, China. This has completely shut down the businesses, manufacturing units and people gatherings. Government has implemented several measures to address the situation like social distancing, lockdown and quarantine. Social media channels have played a significant role in helping people to stay safe and protected from the infection.

Earlier standard communications channels like television, newspapers, radio, and mobile phones were used to create awareness among the masses. Social media was not that prominent, and it was not that influencing on disaster preparedness, recovery and relief unlike today.

In the last few years, a shift has occurred and instead of waiting for news or the morning paper, people obtain their news in real-time through social network service such as Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and Instagram. Gone are the days when people get information by reading the newspaper and watching news channels. We are part of technology era where we get to know about events as they unfold.

When different communication like power, landlines, and electricity are cut off due to a pandemic, social media still exists. People get information about their loved ones, spread awareness and get proper updates through social channels using mobile devices. As a result, socialengine app has become quite significant in the world of disaster preparedness, recovery and relief.

Before a Disaster Strikes

There are several methods to prepare for an approaching disaster like COVID-19 through social media. Several social media outlets including Facebook, Twitter & Instagram help to create community. Invite close friends, family members and colleagues to community in times of emergency. Government officials use social channels to inform people regarding safety measures, health tips and other vital stats.

Cities local officials create public Emergency pages on social channels and socialengine app where community can follow the page to check latest news. Residents should follow hospital, disaster management, police department on their social media networks to stay informed.

During a Disaster

When disaster strikes, panic situation is everywhere. Having an evacuation & safety plan beforehand can bring peace among the masses during such situation. Social media offers real-time information to officials, law enforcement, and public. People share photos and videos of the pandemic happening. The information found on social media is taken into consideration fast by the officials than reading through newspapers.

Officials use social media to alert the public where help is provided and when they are taking next step. Any photos or videos uploaded aid in addressing the situation fast and identifying survivors. Social media during a disaster provides details like road closure updates, evacuation routes, and shelter locations. People use their respective social media accounts to share information regarding their well-being with family and friends.

Following a Disaster

After disaster strikes like COVID-19, social media is used to assist others find proper medical facilities and transport services for their loved ones. It alerts the public about donation and relief funds as well in need of basic items like clothing, non-perishable goods, and hygienic products.

Businesses can perform social engine optimization to inform their clients, customers, and employees to stay safe. They can also use their web presence to update the public as to their plans and timeline to rebuild, relocate, and reopen.

Wrapping Up:

There are many benefits of social media during the times of COVID-19 like pandemic. Information is received in real-time to take necessary decisions. This means government officials release details to the public which results in better implementation. You can also build social network for your business by consulting elgg development services to reach during and after disasters.